THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR to be published by Month9Books in 2020
I am so thrilled to announce that my YA fantasy novel, THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR, will be published by Month9Books in 2020.
This novel was so much fun to write, and I can’t wait for readers to enjoy it! I love my characters and can’t wait for you to fall in love with them, too!
I found my publisher in a way that I had heard about, but never truly believed. My husband and I have been attending Dragon Con for a few years. I love so many of the panels, but I adore the various writing panels offered each year. One of the tips writers and editors frequently say was that conventions were the perfect place to find a publisher. Really? Who would want a writer to come up to them? What would I say?
Well, last year I sat in the audience as Georgia McBride, owner of Month9Books spoke at a Dragon Con panel. As she spoke, I silently worked over what I would say to her after the panel. I worked on my elevator pitch in my head, while simultaneously listening to the talk.
The panel was over. Would I have the nerve to approach her?
I realized that the easiest thing to do was to turn around and walk out of the room. I had already turned down two book contracts for THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR because they weren’t the right fit. Anyway, I was close to self-publishing my book. Plus if I rushed, I could catch dozens of exciting Dragon Con sci-fi and fantasy panels.
But no, I wouldn’t let this opportunity pass. I braced myself and took a deep breath. She was busy talking with other writers. Again, I realized it would be easier to leave. She probably wouldn’t be interested in my book.
I waited, ignoring my desire to flee. I worked on what I would say.
I finally walked up to her with a smile, and she was so easy to talk with. Luckily my elevator pitch intrigued her, and she requested that I submit my manuscript to Month9Books.
Whew.
I submitted THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR to her, and a few months later I received an email. I saw the words, but my brain had to soak in what the words meant. I became so used to receiving “no’s,” that I didn’t know what a “yes” looked like.
I received an Offer for my book from Month9Books! I was over the moon with excitement! I quickly realized I had no knowledge of contracts and I queried Mark Gottlieb, of Trident Media.
I waited.
A few days later, I was visiting a local library with my 19-month-old son and received a call from Mark. Again, it was surreal and fantastic.
New deal congrats! .@IsabelleHWrites‘s THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR, an #ownvoices story: girl knows that magic exists, but as new telenovela actress, her family’s old secret of magic doesn’t fit into her life, to .@Georgia_McBride .@Month9Books by Mark Gottlieb at #TridentMediaGroup pic.twitter.com/NeUCqJaKjg
— Literary Agent Mark Gottlieb (@Mark_Gottlieb) March 16, 2019
This book has had an exciting journey, and the journey continues! Join me as THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR, my debut novel, moves from an idea that came to me one day, to a finished book for readers. It started with my fascination with magic, my love of exploring nature, and my romantic heart.
Month9Books is the perfect home for my book, and I can’t wait to work with their fabulous team as we bring this book to readers.
I thank Georgia and Mark for believing in THE WITCH OF BELLE FLEUR.
Whatever your dream is, don’t give up on it, no matter how long it takes. And when that yes finally comes, be sure you recognize it and celebrate it!
Isabelle Hardesty
Isabelle Hardesty is a writer of young adult fantasy. She enjoys writing about characters who are like people you know and people you want to know.
Isabelle lives in Seattle with her husband and son. She loves being with her family, eating chocolate and connecting with readers. When she is not writing, you can find her either researching for her next book or painting.
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